The 2.3-liter Mazda L3-VDT or MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo engine was produced from 2005 to 2013 and was installed in the charged MPS versions of the models 3 and 6, as well as the popular CX-7 crossover. There are several varieties of this power unit under the index L3K9 and L3-VET.
L-engine family:
1.8 L – L8-DE, L813;
2.0 L – LF-DE, LF-VD, LF17, LFF7;
2.3 L – L3-VE, L3-VDT, L3C1;
2.5 L – L5-VE.
Specifications
| Production years | 2005-2013 |
| Displacement, cc | 2261 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 235 – 275 |
| Torque output, Nm | 350 – 380 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 87.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 94 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Features | balancers, intercooler |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | S-VT, intake |
| Turbocharging | Warner-Hitachi K04 |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Mazda CX-7 2008) — city — highway — combined |
13.8 8.1 10.2 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~230 000 |
| Weight, kg | 148 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mazda 3 MPS BK in 2006 – 2009, 3 MPS BL in 2009 – 2013;
- Mazda 6 MPS GG in 2005 – 2007;
- Mazda CX-7 I (ER) in 2006 – 2012;
- Mazda MPV III (LY) in 2006 – 2010.
Disadvantages of the Mazda L3-VDT engine
- This engine does not like bad fuel, up to the destruction of the piston group;
- The resource of the timing chain and phase shifter sometimes does not even reach 100 thousand kilometers;
- The turbine can quickly fail due to coking of oil in its supply pipes;
- The fuel pressure sensor in the high pressure fuel pump often leaks, which is simply fraught with fire;
- The engine is prone to oil consumption, if you miss the oil level, it will turn the liners.
Frequently asked questions about the Mazda L3-VDT
How much power does the Mazda L3-VDT make?
The Mazda L3-VDT develops 235 - 275 hp and 350 - 380 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mazda L3-VDT take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Mazda L3-VDT have a timing belt or chain?
The Mazda L3-VDT uses a timing chain.
Is the Mazda L3-VDT turbocharged?
Yes, the Mazda L3-VDT is turbocharged (Warner-Hitachi K04).
Does the Mazda L3-VDT need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Mazda L3-VDT last?
The typical lifespan of the Mazda L3-VDT is ~230 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda L3-VDT?
Mazda CX-7 2008: city 13.8, highway 8.1, combined 10.2 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mazda L3-VDT installed on?
Mazda 3 MPS BK in 2006 - 2009, 3 MPS BL in 2009 - 2013; Mazda 6 MPS GG in 2005 - 2007; Mazda CX-7 I (ER) in 2006 - 2012; Mazda MPV III (LY) in 2006 - 2010.
What are the common problems of the Mazda L3-VDT?
This engine does not like bad fuel, up to the destruction of the piston group. The resource of the timing chain and phase shifter sometimes does not even reach 100 thousand kilometers. All known problems.
